The older version of this name is the Roman Beatrix, which gained popularity because of a saint martyred in the 4th century. It probably comes from Viatrix; this is the feminine form of Viator, "voyager;" neither name is in use today. Because of a confusion between the pronunciation of "b" and "v," the name became associated with the word "beatus" or "blessed," and this is a common interpretation of the name. (This pronunciation problem derives from Greek, where the letter beta, which looks like our "b" is pronounced "v".)
The Italian and French variant, Beatrice, became popular all over Europe in the Middle Ages, mainly because of the fame of the 13th century poet Dante and his muse, Beatrice. There are several short forms or pet names including Bee, Bea and (based on the old spelling) Trixie.) The name is rather old-fashioned today, and associated with royalty such as Queen Beatrix of Holland, and one of Prince Andrew's daughters.
The Italian and French variant, Beatrice, became popular all over Europe in the Middle Ages, mainly because of the fame of the 13th century poet Dante and his muse, Beatrice. There are several short forms or pet names including Bee, Bea and (based on the old spelling) Trixie.) The name is rather old-fashioned today, and associated with royalty such as Queen Beatrix of Holland, and one of Prince Andrew's daughters.
